The American Legion JE Lanier Post 27 recognized two of Richmond Hill’s first responders at the December City Council meeting. The Post named Firefighter Jordan Johnson and Police Officer Corporal Christopher Quinn as the 2023 American Legion Fire Fighter and Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.
Fire Chief Brendon Greene introduced Firefighter Johnson to the Council saying: “Firefighter Johnson is a positive presence on his shift through his friendly attitude and his exceptional work ethic. He has earned his Firefighter 1 certification this year, has spent over 300 hours in training on his own time, while serving as Engineer on Engine 1. He does the City of Richmond Hill proud everyday he serves.”
While introducing Corporal Quinn, Chief Mitch Shores commented: “It is my honor to introduce Corporal Quinn as RHPD’s American Legion Officer of the Year. Corporal Quinn retired from the Army as a Staff Sergeant after 20 years of decorated service. Corporal Quinn has served with distinction with the Richmond Hill Police Department for over eight years with assignments including patrol officer, traffic officer, SWAT officer, and Assistant Shift Supervisor.”
“Since 2019 Corporal Quinn has most recently served as a School Resource Officer and has made a lasting positive impact on the lives of the students, staff, and families of the schools in Richmond Hill. Corporal Quinn is known for his persistent cheerful disposition while directing school traffic and diligent efforts to keep our highways safe from distracted drivers while patrolling our streets during school breaks. A measure of his impact was demonstrated when he had to take leave for surgery recently, my office was inundated with phone calls from the school and family members of the students wanting to know why he wasn’t at school; when he returned there were signs on the lawns welcoming him back, He is clearly a special asset to our Department and the City.”
Upon presentation Commander Awtrey said: “These commendations are awarded for outstanding public service benefiting our community, state, and nation. We veterans feel a special kinship with our first responders who put themselves ‘on the line’ for our protection. It is a distinct honor and privilege to be able to recognize their service as the best in our community.”
If you are a veteran and have honorably served since December 1941, you can join the American Legion by contacting CDR Awtrey at awtreyalpost27@ yaqhoo.com or on the web at www.legion. org.
